Major: Human Rights

Overview

The Human Rights major provides students with an interdisciplinary exploration of the principles, practices, and challenges related to the promotion and protection of human rights in local and global contexts. Drawing on disciplines such as Politics, Sociology, Law, and History, this major equips students with a critical understanding of the philosophical foundations of human rights, the evolution of international human rights frameworks, and the complex issues surrounding their implementation and enforcement. 

Students will engage with contemporary human rights debates relating to race, gender, disability, migration, and Indigenous sovereignty, and develop skills in advocacy, policy analysis, and ethical reasoning. The major fosters critical thinking, cultural competency, and global awareness, skills and competencies required for careers in human rights advocacy, law reform, international development, community engagement, and public policy. 

This major is designed to align with ACU’s mission to uphold the dignity of the human person and to promote the common good through education grounded in justice, equity, and compassion. 

Career opportunities

A major in Human Rights opens doors to meaningful careers where you can create positive change in your community and beyond. Graduates may pursue roles in:

• Human rights advocacy and policy
• International development and humanitarian aid
• Government and public service
• Non-government organisations (NGOs)
• Refugee and asylum seeker support services
• Legal support and law reform
• Community education and youth outreach
• Journalism and media

This major also provides a strong foundation for postgraduate study in law, social work, international relations, and public policy.